One of the main differences between Microsoft Stores and Apple Stores in the U.S. is the fact that Microsoft stores sell devices made by other manufacturers such as HTC and Nokia. Apple only sells its own primary hardware such as smartphones, tablets, and notebook computers although it sells accessories made by other manufacturers.

Financial Times now reports that Microsoft is been in talks with property owners in the UK to open new retail stores next year.

Microsoft is confident that it can open its first UK stores in 2013, however, the final decision is dependent on an assessment of how well Microsoft Stores in the U.S. are performing. Microsoft has offered no official statement on the possibility of opening retail stores in the UK at this time.

One key benefit of Microsoft retail stores in the UK would be the ability for the stores to offer classes to train users on Microsoft software and hardware – a service it offers in its current U.S. stores.